“Got it.” Talia scooted off, and Sophia went to lean against a nearby stone structure. She was probably violating some sort of historical landmark rules and wrinkling her dress at the same time, but she couldn’t bring herself to care. At least this outfit wasn’t as puffy as some of the others. The square-cut bodice still showed more than would have been historically prudent, but the sleeves were straight, and the skirt hung loosely without too many ruffles, which was damn lucky, as she wasn’t sure she could handle a sex hangover and a hoop skirt simultaneously. Still, it felt nearly ridiculous to be wearing such an elaborate and heavy get-up after how free and exposed she’d been hours ago.

The thought sent a vivid flash of memories through her mind’s eye, and it must’ve shown because Talia gave a low whistle as she approached with a steaming cup in her outstretched hand.

“You better make this story as dreamy as the expression on your face, because if it’s not earth-shattering, I’m going to send out a missing person’s report on my most cynical and aloof friend.”

“Oh, the cynic is very much still here, but yes, I’ll admit, this story is really that good.”

“Spill,” Talia ordered. “Well, drink, then spill.”

She lifted the coffee to her lips, fully intending to heed those directions, but before she’d managed even two full swallows, the sound of hoofbeats pounding the ground caused every head to turn.

Her first thought was that someone had lost control of an animal, and her senses surged into high alert, but as a stunning white horse burst into view between the trees ahead, it became instantly clear that not only was its rider still astride it, she was one hundred percent in command.

Victoria was upon them in seconds, wheeling her ride to a halt and practically vaulting from its back. She turned first to pat her mount’s muzzle, which gave Sophia the chance to get a full look at her riding breaches and knee-high leather boots. Victoria handed the reins to a man who’d apparently been waiting for them. Then she unclasped her black riding helmet and snapped off her leather gloves, before handing them to the assistant as well. As if that little display weren’t enough, she ran her hands through her long blond hair, shaking out the locks and straining her form-fitting white shirt like some literal lesbian wet dream.